After 1o days in the Big Apple with family and celebrating milestones, I am back in the West Coast. I must say it was quite the successful trip, but extreme heat, pouring rain and humid conditions took a toll. I spent the last 5 days sick and even endured a six-hour flight with a sinus infection. Never again!
Despite poor health and weather extremities, the city that never sleeps was delightful in every way. I often get asked ‘how come you don’t live in NYC?’ and ‘would you ever move here?’ and even though I know this answer all along, this city is a gem in many ways. What I personally enjoy most is the fact that I know I will leave and come back, since it’s perfect for my personality, but in small dosages.
Here are a few little things I learned during this visit, but I am sure most of you already know and appreciate:
–Men are certainly dapper in suits: I love that people still (somewhat) dress up to go to work. Though it is more relaxed in Brooklyn, SoHo and even parts of TriBeCa, Midtown and the Upper Sides (East/West) still are all about the suit & tie.
–Friendly attitudes: We now NYC doesn’t have the most loving reputation, but I encountered more than just a few grunts. People smiled, were incredibly attentive and thankful every time I held a door or excused someone out of the way. One of the main highlights was certainly getting a smile from a Subway attendant.
–Divine architecture: Everywhere you look, there is a different structure that is simply mesmerizing, whether you are uptown or downtown. Each neighborhood has its own character and can be easily identified. I enjoyed walking through the cobblestones near the Meatpacking District and West Village and enjoyed the Upper East Side’s Splendor. Next visit I plan to spend a good chunk of my time in Brooklyn!
As for food and fashion, everyone knows this city stands tall, so there is no need for me to go on and on about its incredible local gems and wonders. One thing to admit, I am a fanatic of soft-serve ice cream from a truck and hot dog from a cart. As for sartorialisms, everywhere you look is inspiring — New Yorkers wear it strong and with attitude, which, in my book is a winning combination!
It’s been real and see you soon, Gotham! More of this amazing trip to come on the upcoming weeks.
Ryzenberg On, is Signing Off
